Jonah BallowWolves Editor/Writer
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Wolves @ Warriors 9:30 PM - Oracle Arena
WHERE TO WATCH: FS NORTH
WHERE TO LISTEN: KFAN 1130
Scouting Report:
Big Picture:
Good luck trying to discover the future plans of the Golden State Warriors. The team that lit the basketball world on fire in the 07' postseason is now a franchise that works in constant chaos. During the summer, Golden State drafted Davidson sharpshooter Stephen Curry, drawing the ire of Monta Ellis. Just one year removed from a moped accident, Ellis discounted the potential of both guards playing in the same backcourt. This distraction coupled with Stephen Jackson's trade demand has placed a dark could over a talented squad. The Warriors ranks in the top 10 in points scored but also allow a league-worst 114.8 points per game. At 1-4, Golden State looks to snap a two-game losing skid heading into a five-game road trip after the contest against Minnesota tonight.
Backcourt:
Contrary to Ellis' hesitation of running along side Curry, head coach Don Nelson has started both players in every game this season. Ellis is off to a strong start by averaging 18.4 points per game and dishing out 6.2 assists. The 6-3 guard enjoys pressuring the opposition in the open floor while utilizing his speed and strength. Most of the pre-draft debate surrounded Curry's natural position on the court at either the point or shooting guard spot. Only weighing 185 pounds, scouts were concerned with his ability to defend on the wing. Through five games, Curry is posting decent numbers, including 14 points, seven assists, and four steals in his NBA debut. Wolves shooting guard Corey Brewer will hold a tremendous size advantage over Curry tonight. Golden State can also bring Kelenna Azubuike off the bench to play in the backcourt or frontcourt with his size and defensive skills.
Frontcourt:
Despite all of his antics, Jackson is one of the most versatile players in the league. Jackson averaged 20 points per game last year, which dipped to 17.6 in the five games this season. The recent trade demands will put the onus on Jackson to produce in order to keep his value high on the market. Corey Maggette runs with the second unit and has scored 46 points in the last three games. The former Duke guard/forward is another player who is best suited for an up-tempo style of offense. Anthony Morrow is another option for Nelson after the second-year pro scored a record 47 points in a Summer League game this offseason. For Minnesota, Al Jefferson should have a more favorable matchup tonight against Andris Biedrins. On Sunday, Jefferson only played 25 minutes, scoring 12 points and grabbing 10 boards on the opposite side of a lengthy Blazers frontcourt.
What To Look For:
Nathan Jawai had a career night in Portland with 16 points 7-for-11 shooting from the floor. Head coach Kurt Rambis lauded Jawai's natural abilities and now the 285-pound may garner more playing time in the future. With Kevin Love missing at least two more weeks, Minnesota needs help with interior defense and rebounding. Golden State was outrebounded 52-34 against Sacramento last night, which shows its vulnerability on the glass. Defensively, the Wolves must slow the Warriors offensive attack on the fast break. Golden State averages the third-most turnovers in the league, offering a chance for Minnesota to score points off the Warriors mistakes. With games against Portland and Dallas on the horizon, the Wolves could gain some confidence by defeating Golden State tonight.
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